Paragliding Instruction

Training is based on the approved certification program for the United States Hang Gliding Association (USHGA) but extends well beyond the USHGA minimums. Lessons emphasize fun, safety, judgment, and skills development through hands-on training, theory, and discussion.

Expect training to begin on flat ground, then progressing to shallow-sloped training hills, then to larger hillsides in the Anchorage and Valley areas. Before mountain flying begins, a tandem flight is encouraged with your instructor to “get the feel” of free flight above the treetops and the simplicity of control input.

Since training sessions are usually one-on-one, and very seldom more than two at a time instruction can be easily paced to the students’ progress. Each session will include some theory, weather discussion, skills development and demonstration, and review.

After gaining the launching, landing, and basic flight skills, much of the training occurs over water near Wasilla. Relax in your harness while the powerboat-mounted, state-of-the-art winch system (see link to Towmeup.com) tows you to a modest height over the water. Release from the line and listen on the radio while the instructor teaches valuable techniques for managing your wing safely under varied conditions.

Towing over the water is considered the safest and most effective way to learn flight skills, but due to the equipment investment most schools cannot offer over-the-water training as part of initial instruction (subsequent training is usually offered in specialty courses for $600 for three days). Midnight Sun Paragliding is one of very few schools in the world to offer this valuable training.

Winter flying in Alaska can be spectacular and if you can ski, you can ski-launch for a new dimension to adventure! Alyeska Ski resort welcomes USHGA pilots who have met some minimum requirements. Ride the tram or chairlift to the top and fly back down over the cheering skiers and boarders all winter and during spring carnival.

Snow cover, extra clothing, and down-mountain trending winds in the fall and winter complicate the learning process, however, therefore Paragliding instruction is limited to the spring and summer.

Phil Smith

When I began I had the usual enthusiasm and excitement with some trepidation. Phil’s presentation provided me with the knowledge to make sound decisions about the weather, site conditions and my ability to operate my wing safely each time I launch.
We have all heard of school’s that promise quality training, but deliver the minimum. I rate Phil’s training as exceptional, his technique and demeanor instill confidence in your ability, compelling you forward to your dream and freedom to Fly. I was hooked after the first Tandem flight. I am progressing well; I have achieved skills and abilities above and beyond the minimums required to receive my P2 rating. Even after acquiring my P2, if Phil is on site he continues to provide instruction, helping me through these high wind launches. Thanks Phil!

- Steve C
Other Ratings:
Commercial instrument rating
Private pilot
Sea Plane rating
Complex (retractable gear, constant speed prop)

During (over the water towing instruction) I’d done my first big ears, frontal folds, riser twists, asymmetric frontal folds steering with weight shift, several B-line stalls, some wing-overs, and I’d tried the speed bar in different situations to see how it worked. Knowing that the glider…will continue to support you, even in extremis is like having a confidence supply in your harness along with your reserve chute. That confidence comes from having good instruction (in this case, from Phil) and repetition of maneuvers and procedures.

- Courtland W.